PPB warns against unregistered cancer drug and substandard painkiller
Health & Science
By
Esther Nyambura
| Dec 11, 2024
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has cautioned the public against the use, sale, and distribution of unregistered and substandard drugs in the market, warning of serious health risks.
Among the flagged products is Floracil 1000 (Fluorouracil 1000mg/2ml), a cancer treatment injection manufactured by Bruck Pharma Limited in India.
According to PPB CEO Dr Fred Siyoi, the drug is unregistered and is being sold illegally.
Dr. Siyoi also raised concerns about Mefnac Oral Suspension, a painkiller produced by Efroze Chemical Industries Limited in Pakistan.
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The Board revealed that the drug is contaminated and unfit for human use.
“The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has issued a quarantine order for Mefnac Oral Suspension (Mefenamic Acid 50mg/5ml) due to suspected contamination with Diethylene Glycol/Ethylene Glycol at levels exceeding acceptable limits,” said Dr. Siyoi.
PPB has advised the public to avoid using the said medicine, urging healthcare facilities to report any cases of substandard or counterfeit drugs.
The warning highlights the ongoing challenges in regulating the pharmaceutical market and ensuring the safety of medicines available to consumers.